Dear Castro Valley Unified School District Community,

Ten years ago, I ran for this Board to finish the work my late husband, Nicholas "Dubb" Whitaker, so passionately started as soon as he joined the Social Studies department at Castro Valley High School. He and I shared the belief that all kids deserve opportunity, an education that helps them thrive, and the dignity and respect that all humans deserve. While I began this journey to honor his legacy, it was you—the staff, teachers, parents, students, and neighbors—who gave that mission its true purpose.I arrived in this community as a single mother looking for a way forward. Castro Valley didn’t just welcome me; it gave me a space to become more than "just someone’s wife." It gave me a voice and a home. Because this community gave me so much, I took my role on the Board with the utmost seriousness. I knew that leadership often requires making hard choices—decisions that I know impacted lives—but I made them with a steady heart because I believed in the collective future of our children.

It is because this community is so special that I find myself at a difficult crossroads. After much reflection, I am resigning from the Board of Education, effective June 25, 2026, as I relocate to begin a new professional chapter. It was hard for me to come to Castro Valley; after Nick died, it was hard for me to stay; and now, it is hard for me to leave. That is the greatest testament I can give to this town.

Serving you has been the honor of my lifetime, but it came with a personal cost. I want to publicly thank my child, who gave up so much of their time with me so I could serve. We began this journey together while they mourned the loss of their father and I was mourning my husband. Giving back to this district was our way of healing, and I am so proud of the person they have become as a product of our schools and community.

To the Superintendents I have been honored to work with, Parvin Ahmadi for nine years and Dr. Nia Rachidchi for almost a year, thank you for your partnership, leadership, and always putting kids first.

To my colleagues on the Board, as well as every Board member I have worked with over the last decade: thank you for the privilege of serving alongside you. Your partnership, even in the most challenging moments, taught me the true meaning of governance and grace.

To Nick’s CVHS leadership students: thank you for allowing us to be a part of your journey. Your growth and your voices were part of the inspiration behind every step we took to help make the world a better place for everyone. 

I am immensely proud of the progress we’ve made in our strategic directions—ensuring that every person involved with our schools is treated with the dignity and respect humans deserve. However, that progress belongs to the dedicated educators, staff, and families who show up every day. I leave with absolute confidence in our District Leadership and our labor partners, CVTA and CSEA. Your tireless advocacy will sustain our momentum in keeping every student safe and supported.

Thank you, Castro Valley, for trusting me, for healing me, and for allowing me to serve you.

With deep love and gratitude,

Lavender Lee Whitaker